Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceum) is one of the edible mushrooms widely distributed in Japan and China. Its name comes from its beautiful white icicle-like spines. Regular consumption of lion’s mane is said to give you “nerves of steel” and “the memory of a lion.” Scientific studies performed in Asia show that lion’s mane is able to regenerate neurons by stimulating production of nerve growth factor (NGF). That’s why today the active ingredients in this amazing mushroom are being studied for their ability to support healthy brain aging.

NERVE GROWTH FACTOR

NGF belongs to a family of proteins that play a part in maintenance, survival and regeneration of neurons during adult life. As we age, NGF declines, resulting in less-efficient brain functioning. In mice, its absence leads to a condition resembling Alzheimer’s disease. Because NGF is unable to cross the blood-brain barrier, it cannot be administered as an oral or IV drug. Accordingly, scientists have been searching for bioactive compounds that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and be taken orally to induce synthesis of NGF within the brain.

HERICENONES AND AMYLOBAN

A breakthrough occurred when a Japanese research team discovered a class of compounds called hericenones in lion’s mane that stimulates production of NGF, causing neurons to regrow. These compounds offer great potential for repairing neurological damage, improving intelligence and reflexes and, even more significant, preventing and treating dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. What’s more, hericenones are the first active substances found in natural products to induce NGF synthesis.

An additional compound isolated from lion’s mane was found to protect against neuronal cell death caused by toxic beta-amyloid peptide. Beta-amyloid peptide is the main component of plaque that develops in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease patients, causing destruction of neurons as it progresses. This protective compound in lion’s mane is simply known as amyloban.

One experiment at the Chinese Pharmaceutical University compared a standardized lion’s mane extract with a common Alzheimer’s drug. Results showed that rats treated with the mushroom extract performed a water-maze test at least equal or better to the Alzheimer’s drug (Aricept®), depending on the dosage of the extract. Also, rats who received lion’s mane extract produced significantly more NGF.

TREATING DEMENTIA

A clinical study using lion’s mane was conducted to investigate its effectiveness against dementia in a rehabilitative hospital in Japan.

Results showed that after six months of taking lion’s mane, six of seven patients experienced improvements in their functional scores. In particular, three bedridden patients were able to get up to eat meals after administration.

For this reason, compounds in lion’s mane are attracting great attention for preventing and treating various types of dementia.

MUSHROOM WISDOM

Maitake Products of New Jersey is a company that has been at the forefront of mushroom research. Their Mushroom Wisdom line includes Super Lion’s Mane, which is recommended for maintaining neurological function, and Amyloban 3399, a proprietary standardized extract containing an even more powerful therapeutic concentration of hericenones and amyloban from lion’s mane.

Amyloban 3399 and other Maitake formulas are available at health retailers nationwide. For more information or to find a store in your area, please call Maitake Products at 800-747- 7418 or visit www.maitake.com.

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